The Liverpool-based charity Local Solutions has purchased a new headquarters in Kensington for £1.9 million. The 13,284 sq ft building on Boaler Street will serve as a community hub, integrating care services, housing support, and office space under one roof.
This acquisition marks a significant step for the charity, which was founded in 1974 and supports tens of thousands of people annually across the Liverpool City Region and North Wales. The new facility includes eight residential apartments, directly supporting the organisation's mission to end homelessness.
Key Takeaways
- Local Solutions has purchased a new headquarters on Boaler Street in Kensington for £1.9 million.
- The 13,284 sq ft property will function as a community hub with offices and eight residential apartments.
- The charity aims to integrate social care, housing support, and community action at the new site.
- The deal was facilitated by property agents Keppie Massie, who also managed the sale of the charity's previous premises.
A New Chapter on Boaler Street
Local Solutions has finalised the acquisition of a substantial property in Kensington, securing a new base of operations to expand its community services. The purchase price for the Boaler Street building was confirmed at £1.9 million.
The property offers considerable space, totaling 13,284 square feet. This includes modern office facilities that will serve as the charity's new headquarters, consolidating its administrative and operational teams. A key feature of the building is the inclusion of eight residential apartments, which will be used to provide vital housing for vulnerable individuals.
The move represents a strategic relocation for the organisation, placing it directly within one of the communities it serves. This decision aligns with its long-term commitment to grassroots engagement and accessible support services.
Facilitating the Move
The property transaction was managed by the Liverpool-based commercial agency Keppie Massie. The firm provided expert guidance throughout the search and acquisition process, ensuring the new building met the charity's specific needs and budget. Keppie Massie also handled the successful sale of Local Solutions' former headquarters on Scotland Road in 2024, paving the way for this new investment.
Vision for a Community Anchor Hub
The Boaler Street building is more than just a new office; it is envisioned as a central 'community anchor hub'. According to Local Solutions, the facility will integrate its core services, creating a single point of access for care, housing support, and community-led initiatives.
Tom Harrison, Chief Executive of Local Solutions, explained the significance of the new location.
"Boaler Street isn’t just a new building, it’s a statement about how we work. It’s about putting the local in Local Solutions – about creating the conditions where care, community, and creativity can flourish together."
Harrison emphasised that the hub is designed to empower local residents and service users. He added, "We know the answers don’t sit in institutions alone – they live in our neighbourhoods, in our carers, our young people, our volunteers, and our everyday changemakers. Boaler Street will be a home for that belief – a place where support feels personal, and where people feel they belong."
This approach aims to break down barriers between services and create a more holistic support system for those in need.
Local Solutions: A Legacy of Support
Founded in 1974, Local Solutions has been a cornerstone of social support in the region for five decades. The charity has grown significantly over the years and now assists more than 37,000 people annually across the Liverpool City Region and North Wales.
By the Numbers: Local Solutions' Impact
- Founded: 1974
- People Supported Annually: Over 37,000
- Geographic Reach: Liverpool City Region and North Wales
- New HQ Cost: £1.9 million
The organisation operates on three primary missions, which guide its diverse range of programmes and services:
- Transforming social care: Providing high-quality, person-centred care services.
- Ending homelessness: Offering housing support and pathways out of homelessness.
- Empowering communities: Fostering grassroots action and building stronger neighbourhoods.
The new Kensington hub is designed to be a physical embodiment of these missions, bringing them together to maximise their impact.
Navigating a Challenging Property Market
The acquisition comes at a time when the commercial property market in Liverpool presents significant challenges for buyers. Limited supply and high demand from investors and other businesses have made it difficult for organisations like charities to secure suitable premises.
Tim Garnett, head of commercial agency at Keppie Massie, commented on the market conditions and the successful outcome for Local Solutions.
"The office market is very challenging for occupiers, with limited supply and strong competition from both investors and other businesses. Using our detailed understanding of the local property landscape, we were able to help Local Solutions by identifying this opportunity early and acting decisively for a successful outcome."
Garnett, who is also the chair of the Liverpool Office Agents Forum, noted a growing trend where occupiers find value in properties that might be overlooked by traditional investors. He concluded, "This deal represents a significant cost-saving," highlighting the financial prudence of the acquisition for the charity.
By securing the Boaler Street property, Local Solutions has not only found a new home but has also made a sound investment that will support its mission for years to come.